5 things to watch out for at the Abu Dhabi GP

Even though the prospect of a long winter break is pretty painful, we still have one more race to look forward to. Now that there is no championship to decide, there is a certain 'end of term' feel in the F1 world as we head to Abu Dhabi, and that can often mean exciting races, and sometimes silly mistakes.

This race is important though. Whoever wins here, can build on that success going into the break, and into next season. That confidence booster should never be underestimated.

Here are five things to watch out for at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix:

FERNANDO ALONSO'S LAST RACE IN F1

Whatever your opinion on Fernando Alonso, this is an undeniably sad moment for F1. Alonso is one of the greatest drivers to have graced the sport, and to see him bow out of the limelight in an uncompetitive car is rubbish. Let's hope for a decent weekend for the Fonz.

MERCEDES VS FERRARI

For the final time in 2018, Ferrari and Mercedes will lock horns. The Scuderia were nowhere in the race in Brazil. Can they find some more form before the season is up? Or will Mercedes (particularly Valtteri Bottas) finish off the season in style?

A PODIUM FOR RICCIARDO?

Before the unluckiest driver of the season heads off to pastures new, he'll want to sign off his time at Red Bull with some success. Ricciardo hasn't had a podium since his win in Monaco, surely it's his time for some luck?

NEW VENTURES FOR VANDOORNE AND ERICSSON

As well as Alonso's departure from the sport, we also know that, next year, Stoffel Vandoorne and Marcus Ericsson are off to Formula E and IndyCar respectively. Since their firings, both drivers have been performing well, so expect to see another strong showing from them in Abu Dhabi.

HAAS VS RENAULT

Renault have pretty much sealed fourth place in the championship. However, it's not over until it's over, and we know anything can happen in F1. Keep an eye out for this battle during the course of this weekend.